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Date: 10/07/2025

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For more information on immigration enforcement (ICE) raids in Illinois, and to report sightings, visit Immigration arrests and workplace raids basics.
Important notice: Immigration laws are changing fast. Some information on our website may not be fully up to date. We’re working to review and update our content as quickly as we can. If you have questions about your case, it’s a good idea to talk to an immigration lawyer Someone who represents clients in courts or who gives legal advice .

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  2. Immigrants & Immigration
  3. Deportation and Removal Proceedings
  4. Removal proceedings and deportation basics

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Immigrants & Immigration

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Removal proceedings and deportation basics Guide

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Removal proceedings are when the government requires a non-citizen to go to immigration court. If an immigration judge decides a person is removable from the US, the judge can order their deportation. Deportation is when the government forces a person to leave the country. 

You should talk to an immigration lawyer Someone who represents clients in courts or who gives legal advice :

  • Before applying for any immigration benefit, including a visa or green card,
  • If you've received a document that says you must go to immigration court, or
  • If you think you could be deported.

This area of law is complicated, and mistakes can be serious.

What are removal proceedings?
What is deportation?
What makes someone at risk for deportation?
What’s the difference between being inadmissible and being deportable?
How does someone get put in removal proceedings?
What happens after someone receives a Notice to Appear?
What is expedited removal?
What is voluntary departure?
Where can someone get help with removal proceedings problems?
Last full review by a subject matter expert
September 22, 2025
Last revised by staff
September 22, 2025

About our legal information

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Applying for a waiver of inadmissibility

Learn more

Removal proceedings and deportation common questions

Worried about doing this on your own?  You may be able to get free legal help.

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Take action

Applying for a waiver of inadmissibility

Learn more

Removal proceedings and deportation common questions
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© 2025 Illinois Legal Aid Online. 
All rights reserved.
 
ILAO is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. ILAO's tax identification number is 20-2917133.